On Monday, a sheriff’s deputy sued the Multnomah County Sheriff’s Office and Multnomah County for $10 million, saying that he had suffered serious injuries as a result of an unsafe patrol boat and other subpar working conditions.
Deputy Rodney Nuzum reported that on Nov. 29, 2021, he was getting off the boat at a county-owned dock and boathouse in Northwest Portland when he slipped and fell on a steel-plated ramp, striking his head.
According to the complaint, Nuzum sustained a severe brain injury and a concussion during the fall. He also reportedly suffered injuries to his ribs and his chest and spine muscles, which were torn, twisted, wrenched, and contused.
According to the complaint, the county and the Multnomah County Sheriff’s Office were negligent in failing to provide functional railings and a secure, non-skid ramp. The government also allegedly neglected to provide sufficient illumination on the pier.
As Nuzum attempted to secure the boat at the Waverly Marina gas dock in Southeast Portland on June 25, 2022, while assisting the sheriff’s office in patrolling the Willamette River, the pilot lost control, causing the boat to break its mooring line and injure Nuzum by flinging him onto the dock, according to the complaint.
In addition to breaking bones in Nuzum’s left arm and both feet, the collision reportedly made a pre-existing cervical ailment worse, according to the complaint.
According to the Multnomah County Circuit Court case, Nuzum’s disabilities from both instances diminished his ability to earn a living and are anticipated to result in future medical costs, which might total $10 million for him.
Deputy John Plock, a spokesman for the sheriff’s office, stated that Nuzum is still employed by the sheriff’s office and that the office does not comment on ongoing legal matters.
Crime, public safety, and local news are all topics covered by breaking news reporter Tatum Todd. You can contact them at 503-221-4313 or [email protected].
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